A positive impression is good when starting a new class its is hard to go back once you have started something if it is negative or bad impression.
Making a positive first impression in a new class is paramount to achieving success in that class. Students, however anxious they may seem, are going to try to "size the instructor up" on the first day of class. Many students will form their opinion of the instructor during the first class and will not change that opinion no matter what the instructor does during the remainder of the course. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary to make a very positive first impression.
Daniel
A good first impression is essential. Students have often heard from previous students both postive and negative comments, Therefore we have to always maintain our professionalism and put our best foot forward.
David,
Good way to ease them into the class and let them get settled into the course. The first class is always a bit nerve racking for students if they don't know the instructor as they want to see how they are going to fit into the course. Once they know they have a dedicated and supportive instructor they start to calm down.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Your first impression with a new class is very important, so showing the students that you are there to help the them achieve the goals is very important.
The first impression sets the tone for the rest of the course. If one sets the example of professionalism, accessibility and sets the ground rules, the best results will be collected and simple mistakes from miscommunication avoided.
Students may have preconceived notions about you before entering the class the first time. I am rigorous but fair, and I have a very dry sense of humor. My process of starting the first day is: introduce myself (name, office, office tel. and cell). I tell them how I entered education and my history teaching during the last 23 years Then I read the attendance roll ensuring that I have the correct pronunciations. The syllabus is covered in detail. Then questions and answers. Then an explanation of how I want them to take notes, study the textbook, and utilize PPT handouts. Lastly, I lecture on a very simple topic. They are nervous when they enter,but usually smiling when they leave.
Exactly. Students judge you from that first impression and create their perception of what type of instructor you are.
In my experience especially in earlier blocks. Once your first impression has been made by the students its very hard to change that impression as the weeks progress. Its always best to start off on the right foot!
Making a good first impression sets a good tone for the class. By making a good first impression students will feel like the instructor cares about the course and the students success in that class.
Jim,
Your last sentence is an important one. Yes, we do bring our personalities to the classroom and as a result we are "selling" both content and professionalism to our students.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Jay,
This is very important to remember so you can create a connection with the students and help them feel accepted and comfortable in the class.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Making a good first impression is most important as students want to do well in every course and they want to know who is going to help them be successful. If you are there just to talk and test, then don't teach. If you are there to help students learn and have some fun, they will remember and want to come back. I always tell my students that I'm all about their success rather than just to lecture. If they remember a few things from the class then I am successful in helping them learn. There is no perfect teaching method but personality helps a lot.
Some students can be intimidated by the whole college/classroom experience or environment, so it's important to extend oneself as the instructor to help put students at ease and feel comfortable and as confident as possible.
It is very important to have a positive first impression when starting a new class. By having a goog start with your class, sets the tone for the rest of the class. By showing the students you want to be there for them and that you are passion for your field will give the students a positive attitude towards the class.
For identifying yourself the class and expectations from students as well as their for you.
Corey,
A great way to start a class and create a positive first impression. You are sending a message of success and engagement to your students if they are willing to put forth the effort.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I want to make a good first impression in my class because i want my students to buy into the course.
I agree. A positive impression of the teacher leads to respect not only of the teacher but the class and material as well.
A positive first impressions is very important because it set the tone of your class. Being prepared and professional are always an excellent start.
